UNC Health Pardee’s Emergency Department has implemented a comprehensive workplace violence prevention program focused on staff safety, early intervention and enhanced behavioral

UNC Health Pardee Emergency Department

health expertise. Dedicated behavioral health nurses in the ED provide specialized assessment and de-escalation support, while all ED team members complete crisis intervention training and carry personal duress badges for rapid assistance. Strong partnerships with hospital security and local law enforcement ensure a visible safety presence and timely response to escalating situations. The department promotes reporting, provides post-incident support through Critical Incident Stress Management and actively monitors safety metrics. The efforts have contributed to an overall reduction in workplace violence events.

The ED team also fosters excellence through a comprehensive education and professional development program. New graduate nurses participate in a six-month ED nurse residency program featuring specialty seminars, clinical shadowing, mentorship and advanced certification support. Experienced nurses receive individualized onboarding and competency-based orientation tailored to their backgrounds. Ongoing development opportunities include quarterly education, training specific to skills for high-acuity-low-frequency events, specialty certification support, tuition reimbursement, conference attendance, ENA involvement, scholarships and career mentoring. These structured learning pathways, continuing education and professional development opportunities, and career advancement support in the 24-bed ED have increased engagement and improved team member satisfaction.